New Delhi: India’s men’s futsal team put up a fighting display but were ultimately beaten 1-4 by hosts Kuwait in their opening Group A match of the AFC Futsal Asian Cup 2026 Qualifiers at the Qushaian Al-Mutairi Hall in Ardiya on Saturday.
Brave start, early lead for India
Ranked 135th in the world, India entered only their second-ever Asian Cup Qualifiers campaign against Kuwait, who sit 43rd. Under Iranian coach Reza Kordi, the side adopted a compact defensive shape, pressing hard and battling physically against the fancied hosts.
The breakthrough came in the ninth minute. Lalsangkima threaded a fine pass through the Kuwaiti defence to David Laltlansanga, who smashed a powerful strike past goalkeeper Fawad Al Khawari. The goal stunned the home crowd and extended Laltlansanga’s record as India’s all-time top scorer in futsal with eight international goals.
Kuwait fight back before half-time
The hosts responded swiftly. Just a minute after India’s opener, Naser Al Aban set up Saleh Al Fadhel, who blasted the equaliser into the roof of the net. Despite some brave saves from India’s goalkeeper Ozen Vivian Silva, Kuwait went ahead in the 18th minute when Abdulaziz Al Sarraj found space to make it 2-1 at the break.
Missed chances hurt India
India had a golden opportunity to draw level in the 24th minute. Midfielder K Roluahpuia rounded the Kuwait keeper after pouncing on a loose ball, but dragged his shot wide of the target. The miss proved costly as Kuwait extended their advantage three minutes later. Quick exchanges between Al Aban and Al Abasi set up Mohammad Al Ajmi, who calmly slotted home for 3-1.
India continued to push bodies forward in search of a comeback, but their aggression left gaps at the back. In the 37th minute, Kuwait sealed the contest through Al Abasi, who finished off a swift counter-attack to complete a 4-1 win.
Next challenge for India
Despite the defeat, India’s spirited performance earned praise for their tactical discipline and resilience against much higher-ranked opponents. They will next face Australia on 22 September, a crucial fixture to keep their qualification hopes alive.